Santa Claus arriving for the Christmas tree lighting in Cedar Springs last Saturday, December 2. Post photo by J. Reed.

By Judy Reed

We had great weather here in Cedar Springs last Saturday, December 2, to welcome Santa Claus to town. And a lot of people enjoyed the day-long events that took place before the big man made his entrance in the parade.

“A Cedar Springs Christmas weekend 1—Mingle with Kris Kringle—went over quite well,” said Perry Hopkins, president of the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce. “The library had over 100 people attend their crafts to start the event off. Story time with Mrs. Claus and Cousin Shannon was a hit for the children as well. “

Hopkins said that the children loved the petting zoo and bake sale provided by Double K Farms and Animal Junction. The CS HS Choir performed while people were waiting for the parade to start.

More people marched or drove in the parade this year, which brought Santa from the fire station to the corner of Ash and Main, in a horse-drawn carriage.

Calvary Assembly of God presented their live nativity before the tree lighting. Post photo by J. Reed.

Calvary Assembly of God once again did a live nativity scene, and then Santa and Mayor Gerald Hall did a countdown to light the tree. Afterwards, children and their families were invited to follow Santa over to the American Legion where they could color a picture, write a letter to Santa, or have hot chocolate, while they waited to visit with Santa and get a photo taken. Baked goods were also available for sale.

The Christmas tree after it was lit at the corner of Ash and Main Street. Post photo by J. Reed.

Hopkins said that photos that were taken during the daylong event will be available on the Mingle with Kris Kringle event page on Facebook.

The fun continues this weekend with the Kent Theatre Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 9 from 3-5 p.m., and the Kent Theatre Christmas Dance Extravaganza on Sunday, December 10, from 3-5 p.m. Admission is $3 for each show.

Santa Claus hugs two excited children at the 2016 Mingle with Kris Kringle. Photo courtesy CS Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

Are you ready to have yourself a merry Christmas Cedar Springs-style? Come on out and experience a day of goodwill and cheer on Saturday, December 2, when the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce presents “Come Mingle with Kris Kringle.”

The day will run from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with various fun, family-friendly, events. The starts at 9 a.m. with families able to make and take Christmas ornaments for our downtown tree or decorate a mug at the Cedar Springs Library from 9-noon. You can also enjoy a story time with Mrs. Claus from 2-3 p.m. at Perry’s Place llc for herbs, teas, and more. There will also be a meet and greet with Cedar Springs cheerleaders, a petting zoo, and carolers from Red Hawk Elementary, all before the mini-parade that brings Santa to the corner of Main and Ash Street at about 4:30-4:45.

Following the parade will be a live nativity scene and mingling with Kris Kringle at the American Legion Hall.

Bring the whole family out on Saturday, December 2, for a fun, community Christmas celebration! See the Chamber advertisement on page 9 of this week’s e-edition and our list of Holiday Happenings in the surrounding areas for complete details on times and locations.

Downtown Cedar Springs is looking more festive and cheery than it has looked in the past decade, thanks to a partnership between the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Development Authority, and the City of Cedar Springs.

According to Perry Hopkins, who is chairman of the DDA, president of the Chamber, and sits on the City Council, it’s been at least 10 years since the trees lining Main Street were decorated with lights. “They haven’t had them since I opened my business here,” remarked Hopkins, who owns Perry’s Place llc for teas and more.

Hopkins said that both old and new businesses were asking, “Why don’t you bring back the small-town Christmas charm this town used to have?”

Hopkins explained that Mayor Gerald Hall offered to string the lights and hook up the needed accessories if the Chamber could get sponsors to raise the money, and several businesses chipped in to make it possible. The City Council then voted to pay for the electricity.

The Cedar Springs DPW plugged the lights in on Monday and they now come on at dark with the street lights.

Kids lined up outside of the Post to get a spooktacular treat. Post photo by J. Reed.

The Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce’s Halloween Spooktacular was a big hit as hordes of little and not so little ghouls and goblins, zombies and zany characters visited homes and businesses in Cedar Springs Tuesday evening for annual trick or treating fun.

Businesses along Main Street, the old schoolhouse at the C.S. Museum, the fire station, the library, and The Springs Church all gave out treats and held their own form of Halloween fun.

Superheroes, princesses, and evil villains all helpedthemselves to candy at The Post. Post photo by J. Reed.

Downtown trick or treating was from 5-6:30 p.m., while residential trick or treating lasted until 8 p.m.

The Cedar Springs Post is ready for ghosts, spooks, fairies, monsters, princesses and other forms of ghouls that will fill the streets of Cedar Springs this Halloween with a pile of candy* to appease the scary (or pretty) masses.

But beware, there may be a few monsters residing here at our local newsp aper as well. If you say the magic words, “Trick or Treat” they will hand over their candy with a smile and maybe a growl. But do not fear, none of them actually bite!

For more information on Spooktackular Fun courtesy of the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, click link to see Hometown Happenings.

The fun starts this Friday, July 14, when the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce holds a Community Potluck Picnic and Movie in Morley Park. The picnic starts at 6 p.m. This is a free event where everyone is welcome. Bring the family down and a dish to pass and enjoy dinner and yard games in the park before the movie starts! Dinnerware and water provided. This year’s movie is Arthur Christmas and starts at dusk.

On Saturday, July 15, over 90 businesses and vendors will line Main Street for the Christmas in July Artisan Market and Sidewalk Sales event. It starts at 10 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. They will hold a ribbon cutting for Ryanne Donahue State Farm Agency at 11 a.m.

Hometown Happenings articles are a community service for non-profit agencies only. Due to popular demand for placement in this section, we can no longer run all articles. Deadline for articles is Monday at 5 p.m. This is not guaranteed space. Articles will run as space allows. Guaranteed placement is $10, certain restrictions may apply. You now can email your Hometown Happenings to happenings@cedarspringspost.com please include name and phone number for any questions we may have.

Head Start for Kent County

Apply today! North Kent Head Start a high quality preschool program is taking applications. No cost to families. 3 year old – full day classes. Family support – transportation (in most areas). Nutritious meals and snacks. Child Health and Development screenings. Accommodations for children with disabilities. Families must meet eligibility guidelines. Complete an application on our website www.hs4kc.org or call 616-453-4145. #28,29b

Potluck Picnic, Movie and Sidewalk Sales

July 14,15 : Christmas in July Community Potluck Picnic and Movie in Morley Park: The fun starts Friday, July 14th at 6 pm in Morley Park. This year the Cedar Springs area Chamber of Commerce has decided to add a community potluck/picnic to the Christmas in July movie in Morley Park event. This is a free event where everyone is welcome. Bring the family down & a dish to pass and enjoy dinner and yard games in the park before the movie starts! This year’s Christmas in July movie will be “Arthur Christmas”. Saturday July 15th over 90 businesses & vendors will participate in Christmas in July Sidewalk Sales. #28b

Sing to the Lord

July 16: 2nd Chance will be having gospel hymn sing on Sunday, July 16th at 6 pm. It will be at 2nd Chance School at 810 – 17 Mile Rd. Cedar Springs (corner of 17 Mile and Olin Lakes Rd). Music will be provided by Deb and Larry Eadie and the message shared by Ron Parson. Invite your family and friends. The Sing to the Lord hymn sings will be every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month. Sing to the Lord hymn sings will introduce you to 2nd Chance and its vision. The school is in the building stage, which when completed, will teach troubled teens through God and the horse. If you have questions, call 616-293-2150. See you there! #28b

Dinner at the Legion

July 17: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Baked Chicken dinner on Monday, July 17th , from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be mashed potatoes, stuffing, veggies, salad, roll, dessert and drink. The cost is $9 for adults, children (15 and younger) $4.00. Come and enjoy home cooking. Take out is available. 616-696-9160. #28

Alan Kazam – Magic Show

July 18: If it’s fun, laughter and unforgettable memories you’re looking for, then come watch Alan Kazam, a professional magician who has been delighting audiences with his unique brand of magic for over 20 years. Presented by the Cedar Springs Community Library on Tuesday, July 18th from 1 to 2 pm at Cedar Springs Middle School, corner Northland Drive and 16 Mile Rd. #28

Celebrate Recovery Tent Meeting

July 18: The weekly (Tuesday at 6:30 pm) meeting fo the nationally recognized program Celebrate Recovery will be a tent meeting outside on Tuesday, July 18th at Hillcrest Community Church, 5993 – 18 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs, MI 49319. Phone 616-696-9333 for more information. #28

Michigan Blood Drive

July 18: A Michigan Blood Drive will be held on July 18th at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church from 12:30 pm until 7 pm. Members of the Cedar Springs Women’s Club will be grilling hot dogs for all those who attempt to donate. Chips and a drink will be included. Summer is a particularly slow number for donors but a high demand for blood. Each donation has the potential to save 3 Michigan lives. The Blood Center thanks all the people that donate at the Cedar Springs blood drive. #28

VBS at Cedar Springs UMC

July 24-27: Come and discover your Super strength with us at “Hero Central!” We’ll have lots of fun – including crafts, games, stories and much more. Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, 140 S. Main Street. July 24th to the 27th from 6 to 8 pm. Find registration forms on our website, www.cedarspringsumc.org, outside of the Sanctuary or in the church office. Contact Sally Johnson with any questions at 616-788-8225 or email: sallex58@gmail.com. #28,29b

VBS at Resurrection Lutheran Church

July 24-28: Vacation Bible School at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 180 Northland Drive, Sand Lake will be held July 24th – 28th from 6 to 8 pm. Ages 4 years old to sixth grade (entering). For registration information, please email churchresurrection@yahoo.com or call 616-636-5502. #27-29b

If you are looking for something to do this weekend, check out what’s happening in Cedar Springs and the surrounding area.

Thursday morning, June 8, CS Brewing Farmers Market: Cedar Springs Brewing Co., at the corner of Main and W. Maple Streets, will be hosting its first CSBrew Farmers Market of the season behind the brewery from 8 a.m. to noon. They have vendors lined up to sell local produce, meats, eggs, honey, syrup, cheese, kettlecorn and more. The farmers market will offer fresh, seasonal produce from local area farmers to everyone in the community every Thursday until October.Friday, June 9, Movie in the Park: Pack up some snacks, lawn chairs or a blanket, and take the family to Morley Park on Friday evening, June 9, to see the movie “Goonies.” Games and activities start at 6 p.m. and the movie will start as soon as it is dark enough for the movie projector to show up on the wall of the Cedar Springs Historical Museum. The event is put on by the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce.

Saturday, June 10, Sidewalk sales: The Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its Artisan Market & Sidewalk sales event beginning at 10 a.m. in downtown Cedar Springs. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year’s sidewalk sales are set to include Artisan Market vendors and will be a great time for some downtown shopping.

Saturday, June 10, Velzy Park Picnic fundraiser: Head out to the Solon Township Hall at 15185 Algoma Ave to help raise funds for the new Velzy Park. The event will run from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. with community wide sales, (in the parking lot); a craft show (inside the hall); ribbon cutting ceremony for the new walking trail at 11:00 a.m.; a hot dog picnic (fee) at noon; plus 50/50 raffle, basket raffles, and T-shirt sales.

Saturday, June 10, Rickerstrong Run Razor: Back roads motorcycle ride and poker run to raise funds for Brison and Preston Ricker, two local teens suffering from cancer. There is also breakfast, a car show, dinner, and silent auction. Registration 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Tribes Church, 6070 Kuttshill NE, Rockford. The car show and dinner will be at Kent City Lounge, 28 S. Ball Creek Ave, Kent City. Call Ginny Wheater for more info at 616-206-1599.

Last weekend, May 20-21, there were strange goings on at Morley Park, as hobbits, orcs, elves, and other unusual people could be seen strolling throughout the Park, and all manner of entertainment graced the grounds, from sword play, to belly dancing, to musical minstrels. That’s because last weekend was “Fellowship of the Springs,” the 2017 Cedar Springs Renaissance Faire, put on by the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Without having a gate entrance we do not have an accurate number of attendees, but it is estimated over 400 attended between the two days,” said Chamber President Perry Hopkins. “Rain doesn’t stop a Renaissance Faire. It may have chased away a few patrons, but the faire still went on.”

E-Leesa Gypsy Enchantress and Steel Lotus Dance Troupe entertained everyone on the Gypsy Stage; Darkmore Colony of Larpcraft shared their battle skills on the hill by the north entrance to the park with their Larpcraft swords shields, and talent; Kingdom of Shiabruck took the flat ground and entertained with metal swords and their fenced in arena for patrons to dual with foam swords. The Wind Rose Minstrel, Bell Brook and Cantro, Joe Kid and Sheila Burke performed their musical talents in multiple areas of the park giving patrons entertainment as the shopped at vendor booths such as Belly Dance Costumes USA, Paracord Fashions, The Knotted Cloak, and Perry’s Place llc for herbs, teas, and more… Mother Earth Mehndi was set up doing Henna Art for passer byers.

A Royal Dinner (catered by The Grilling Company) with live entertainment was held on Saturday evening for those who wish to attend. Cast Co-Director Scott Schroeder emceed the Royal Dinner with a special toast from Cedar Springs Mayor Pro-tem Pamela Conley. Queen Victoria (Mandy Stephenson) and other cast walked the grounds mingling and entertaining people all weekend.

“We (the event committee) were happy to see more local people at this year’s Cedar Springs Renaissance Faire and more of them came in costume,” said Hopkins. “There was much positive feedback about us switching the date to May verses having the fair in June like previous years.”

He also said that because they didn’t have a parade this year, the vendors were able to do some shopping at local businesses before the festivities began. Many of them are eager to return.

“You know your fair went well when some of the new attendees comment about what they want to do for next year,” said Hopkins.

The Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce would like to have more local talent involved in this year’s Renaissance Faire, so they are inviting those who would like to participate to audition for a role. Cast auditions for the 2017 Cedar Springs Renaissance Faire “Fellowship of the Springs” will be held on Saturday, February 25, at 5:30 p.m. “We welcome any and all family-friendly creativity for our event. J.R.R. Tolkien fans will love this year’s faire, especially those who read the books,” said Chamber president Perry Hopkins.
Cast Auditions will be held in the Kin of Hope Natural Health Dance & Fitness Studio, which is on the second floor above Perry’s Place llc for herbs, teas, and more… If you have a disability and cannot climb stairs please let them know and they will make special arrangements for you.